Last summer, I suffered through my most significant and debilitating MS relapse since my diagnosis more than eight years ago. As I told my doctor, I had thought I understood just how severely my nervous system could take me down, but I really had no clue. Over the two months that I struggled to walk, think and be ‘Donna,’ I was sure that I was on that terrifying slide into progressive MS.

But that was not the case. My body responded to treatment, and I pretty much recovered to my baseline. I was lucky, where others have not been so lucky.

Facing my own worries, I came to appreciate the MS Achievement Center even more. During my volunteer time at the center most Thursdays, I witness the support, the activities, the sense of place. The goodness all around. Now, I can feel how the center helps keep the bleakness at bay.

And I want to make sure everyone who suffers so profoundly from this dang disease has a community like this to lift them up when everything just seems so difficult. And, yes, bleak.

Please help us in our fund-raising for the Race to Nowhere. I am especially grateful to my nephew Jacob Steele, who will be riding for me this year. How lucky am I?

-- Donna Vestal, Friends of the MS Achievement Center board member and treasurer

We would love your support for our 26th Annual Race to Nowhere!

This stationary bike race raises funds for a unique wellness program that provides health expertise and resources for people with progressed MS. Your gift helps them find connection and support as they face the challenges of a disease that takes so much from them. Whether you register to ride, make a donation or support one of our fundraisers, you can make a big difference!